The UK continues to be one of the top global destinations for data professionals. As organisations increasingly rely on analytics, artificial intelligence, and big data, the demand for skilled data scientists is at an all-time high. In 2025, the average data scientist salary in the UK reflects both the growing importance of data-driven decision-making and the fierce competition for talent.
Recent reports indicate that data science roles in London have seen a 40 %+ increase in demand over the past five years, reflecting the UK’s push to become an AI and data-innovation hub. Meanwhile, the national median full-time salary rose by 4.3 % in 2025 to £39,039, signalling modest wage growth overall even as high-skill roles remain well-rewarded.
This article explores detailed insights into salaries based on experience, location, industry and education, helping you understand how much you can earn as a data scientist in the UK. It also covers the cost of living and how to maximise your earning potential in 2025.
As of 2025, the average data scientist salary in the UK is around £56,000 per year, according to recent reports from Glassdoor and Indeed. This marks a steady 6–8% increase from 2024, reflecting the rising demand for data professionals across industries like tech, finance, and healthcare.
When converted, this annual salary equals roughly £4,600–£4,800 per month before taxes, or around £27–£30 per hour for full-time positions. Professionals working in major cities such as London, Cambridge, and Manchester often earn higher pay due to the competitive job market and higher cost of living.
Compared to previous years, the growth in pay is largely driven by companies investing heavily in AI, data automation, and machine learning projects. With the UK emerging as a European data hub, even mid-level professionals are seeing significant salary jumps in 2025, especially those skilled in Python, SQL, and cloud analytics tools.
Data scientists in the UK continue to enjoy strong earning potential, with salaries expected to climb further as organizations deepen their reliance on data-driven decision-making.
Role
Average Annual Salary (GBP)
Equivalent in INR (₹)
Experience Level
Junior/Entry-Level Data Scientist
£38,000
₹40.3 lakh
0–2 years
Mid-Level Data Scientist
£56,000
₹59.4 lakh
2–5 years
Senior Data Scientist
£75,000
₹79.6 lakh
6–10+ years
Data Scientist Salary by Experience Level
Experience is one of the biggest factors influencing how much a data scientist earns in the UK. As professionals gain technical expertise and domain knowledge, their pay scales increase significantly, especially in industries like finance, AI research, and tech consulting.
Entry-Level Data Scientist Salary in UK
Entry-level data scientist salary UK ranges from £30,000 to £58,000 per year (₹31–₹60L). The average data scientist salary in UK for freshers is around £46,000 (₹47L), with additional bonuses pushing total pay even higher. London consistently leads in pay, followed by cities like Manchester and Edinburgh.
Top hiring locations for entry-level roles include London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, where data-driven startups and financial firms frequently recruit young talent. Graduates with certifications in Python, SQL, or Tableau often secure offers on the higher end of this range.
While London offers higher pay, it also comes with a higher cost of living, so starting salaries in regional hubs like Manchester or Leeds may provide better net savings for newcomers.
Mid-Level Data Scientist Salary in UK
Data scientists with 2–5 years of experience typically earn between £50,000 and £65,000 annually. These professionals usually have hands-on experience with machine learning, big data analytics, and cloud platforms like AWS or Azure.
Certifications in AI, deep learning, or advanced SQL programming can significantly boost earning potential. Mid-level professionals are often promoted to positions like Data Analyst Lead, Machine Learning Engineer, or Data Strategy Consultant, depending on their technical expertise and project exposure.
In 2025, mid-level salaries have increased by about 7% year-on-year, especially for those skilled in Python, Power BI, and predictive analytics, tools that are in high demand across UK employers.
Senior Data Scientist Salary in UK
Professionals with 5–10+ years of experience and deep domain specialization can command salaries between £70,000 and £95,000 annually, with senior leads in top firms or research roles earning over £100,000 per year.
These senior-level data scientists often handle AI strategy, team leadership, and end-to-end model deployment, working with executive teams to drive business insights. Roles in major companies, particularly in London, Cambridge, and Bristol, offer higher packages due to the scale of their data operations.
Strong credentials, such as advanced degrees (PhD), leadership experience, or certifications in AI/ML, can further elevate compensation.
Average Data Scientist Salary in the UK by Experience Level [2025]
The salary of a data scientist in the UK varies significantly by city, largely influenced by the cost of living, job demand, and the presence of tech and finance hubs.
Major cities like London and Cambridge tend to offer the highest pay due to their thriving technology ecosystems and higher living expenses, while regional cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh provide competitive salaries with a better cost–benefit ratio.
Let’s look at how data scientist salaries differ across major UK cities in 2025.
City
Average Annual Salary (GBP & INR)
Cost of Living Index (2025)
London
£70,000 (₹74.2 lakh)
85.0
Cambridge
£63,000 (₹66.8 lakh)
78.5
Manchester
£57,000 (₹60.4 lakh)
68.2
Birmingham
£54,000 (₹57.2 lakh)
66.8
Edinburgh
£58,000 (₹61.5 lakh)
69.5
While London pays the most, cities like Manchester or Edinburgh can offer better net savings and quality of life, making them ideal destinations for international professionals and data science graduates alike.
Data Scientist Salary by Industry
Data science has become a vital component of every major industry in the UK. Salaries vary depending on the sector, organization size, and the level of data integration in daily operations. In 2025, industries like technology, fintech, healthcare, and consulting are driving a strong surge in demand for skilled data professionals.
Technology & IT
The technology and IT sector continues to offer some of the highest-paying data science roles in the UK. Professionals skilled in machine learning, Python, and AI automation are particularly valued.
Average Salary: £65,000 – £85,000 (≈ ₹68.9 – ₹90.1 lakh)
Top Employers: Google UK, Microsoft, Amazon, and DeepMind
This sector is expected to see continued growth as AI and data-driven systems become central to business innovation.
Finance & Banking
Financial institutions in London, Edinburgh, and Manchester rely heavily on predictive analytics, risk modeling, and algorithmic trading.
Average Salary: £60,000 – £80,000 (₹63.6 – ₹84.8 lakh)
Top Employers: Barclays, HSBC, JP Morgan, Lloyds
With the rise of fintech startups, data scientists with experience in fraud detection and customer insights are in high demand in 2025.
Healthcare & Pharma
The healthcare and pharmaceutical industry is leveraging data to improve patient outcomes, clinical research, and healthtech solutions.
Average Salary: £55,000 – £75,000 (≈ ₹58.3 – ₹79.5 lakh)
Top Employers: NHS Digital, GSK, AstraZeneca, IQVIA
Growth in AI-powered diagnostics and genomics continues to push demand for specialized data scientists.
Consulting & Business Analytics
Consulting firms use data analytics to solve complex business challenges for clients across industries.
Average Salary: £58,000 – £78,000 (≈ ₹61.5 – ₹82.7 lakh)
Top Employers: Deloitte, PwC, Accenture, EY
In 2025, the consulting and business analytics segment is expected to see sustained demand as companies prioritize data-driven decision-making to enhance performance and reduce costs.
Among all sectors, technology and finance lead in pay growth, while healthtech and consulting are the fastest-growing domains for new data scientist job creation in 2025.
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Salary by Education Level & Key Skills
Education and technical proficiency play a crucial role in shaping the data scientist salary in the UK. Employers often prefer candidates with advanced degrees and proven expertise in programming, analytics, and machine learning. The right combination of education and skills can significantly boost career growth and earning potential in 2025.
Based on Education
A higher academic qualification typically leads to better job prospects and higher salaries in the UK’s data science sector. Professionals with master’s or PhD degrees often qualify for advanced research, AI strategy, or leadership positions, which command higher pay scales.
Qualification
Average Salary (GBP)
Growth Opportunity
Bachelor’s Degree
£48,000 – £55,000
Entry-level analyst and junior data roles
Master’s Degree
£58,000 – £70,000
Mid-level and specialized data science roles
PhD
£72,000 – £90,000
Advanced research, AI, and leadership positions
Data scientists with master’s degrees often find the best balance between pay and employability.
PhD holders are in demand for AI research, academia, and R&D-focused organizations in the UK.
Based on Skills
In 2025, technical skills remain the biggest salary drivers for data scientists in the UK. Employers highly value candidates who can combine analytical thinking with hands-on knowledge of tools and languages used in modern data environments.
Top-paying skills for data scientists in the UK (2025):
Python – Core programming skill used for data manipulation and model building
SQL – Essential for data extraction and database management
Machine Learning – Drives predictive analytics and automation projects
Deep Learning – High-value skill for AI, image recognition, and NLP applications
Tableau or Power BI – Visualization and storytelling skills that enhance business decision-making
Data scientists who combine Python, ML, and visualization tools can earn up to 25–30% higher salaries than peers with limited tool exposure.
Data Scientist Salary Growth Trends [2025 & Beyond]
The data scientist salary in the UK has seen consistent growth over the past few years, driven by rapid advancements in technology and analytics. In 2025, average salaries are up by nearly 8–10% compared to 2024, showing how critical data roles have become across industries.
Several factors contribute to this upward trend, including the rise of AI, machine learning, and automation in both private and public sectors. Industries like fintech, healthtech, and e-commerce are especially boosting hiring demand for skilled professionals.
Key Trends Driving Salary Growth:
Increasing integration of AI and big data across organizations.
Higher demand for data engineers, ML experts, and AI consultants.
Shift toward cloud-based analytics and automation tools.
Government support for digital innovation and data literacy programs.
Expanding opportunities in remote and hybrid work models.
Looking ahead, the salary of a data scientist in the UK is expected to rise steadily through 2026 and beyond. Professionals who upskill in emerging technologies such as natural language processing, generative AI, and cloud architecture will remain in high demand and command premium pay packages.
Comparison with Similar Roles
When comparing the salary of a data scientist in the UK with other related positions, it’s clear that compensation varies based on specialization, skill requirements, and market demand.
While data scientists lead in analytical expertise, roles like AI engineers and ML specialists often command slightly higher salaries due to their focus on advanced algorithms and automation.
Below is a comparison of similar roles in 2025:
Role
Average Annual Salary (GBP & INR)
Skill Focus
Data Scientist
£65,000 ( ₹69.5 lakh)
Machine Learning, Python, Data Modeling
Data Analyst
£48,000 ( ₹51.3 lakh)
SQL, Excel, Tableau, Reporting
Data Engineer
£60,000 ( ₹64.1 lakh)
ETL, Cloud, Database Management
AI Engineer
£72,000 ( ₹76.9 lakh)
Deep Learning, Neural Networks, AI Systems
ML Specialist
£68,000 ( ₹72.7 lakh)
Predictive Modeling, Automation, Python
While data scientists enjoy competitive salaries, those who transition into AI or ML-focused roles can expect even higher earnings. Upskilling in AI frameworks, cloud technologies, and automation tools can significantly boost long-term earning potential in the UK market.
Top Companies Hiring Data Scientists in UK [2025]
In 2025, top global and UK-based companies continue to offer attractive salary packages to skilled data scientists. Firms such as Google, Amazon, and Deloitte are investing heavily in AI, data analytics, and automation, creating consistent opportunities for both fresh graduates and senior professionals. Salary levels often vary depending on expertise, project scale, and role specialization.
Company
Average Annual Salary (GBP / ₹)
Experience Level
Google
£75,000 ( ₹80.2 lakh)
3–7 years (Mid to Senior)
Amazon
£70,000 ( ₹74.9 lakh)
2–6 years (Mid-Level)
Deloitte
£62,000 ( ₹66.3 lakh)
2–5 years (Mid-Level)
HSBC
£58,000 ( ₹62.1 lakh)
2–5 years (Mid-Level)
Accenture
£60,000 ( ₹64.1 lakh)
1–4 years (Entry to Mid-Level)
Microsoft
£72,000 ( ₹76.9 lakh)
3–7 years (Mid to Senior)
Barclays
£65,000 ( ₹69.5 lakh)
2–6 years (Mid-Level)
PwC
£63,000 ( ₹67.4 lakh)
2–5 years (Mid-Level)
Data scientists joining as interns or analysts in these firms can expect competitive starting salaries ranging between £35,000–£45,000 (₹37–48 lakh) per year, with rapid growth potential as they gain technical expertise and domain experience.
Cost of Living vs Data Scientist Salary in UK
While data scientists in the UK enjoy strong earning potential, the cost of living in UK for international professionals and students can significantly vary depending on the city. London remains the most expensive place to live, with higher rent and daily expenses, while cities like Manchester and Birmingham offer a better balance between salary and living costs.
Below is a comparison of average salaries, monthly expenses, and estimated savings potential across key UK cities:
City
Average Salary (GBP / ₹)
Monthly Expenses (GBP / ₹)
Savings Potential
London
£70,000 ( ₹74.9 lakh)
£2,200 ( ₹2.35 lakh)
Moderate
Cambridge
£63,000 ( ₹67.4 lakh)
£1,900 ( ₹2.04 lakh)
High
Manchester
£57,000 ( ₹61.0 lakh)
£1,600 ( ₹1.71 lakh)
High
Birmingham
£54,000 ( ₹57.8 lakh)
£1,550 ( ₹1.66 lakh)
High
Edinburgh
£58,000 ( ₹62.1 lakh)
£1,700 ( ₹1.82 lakh)
Moderate
In general, data scientists in cities outside London can save 20–30% more due to lower accommodation and transport costs. However, London-based professionals often earn higher base pay, which helps offset the high living costs.
For international students or early-career professionals, understanding this cost-salary balance is crucial when planning to study or work in the UK’s data science field.
Worried about the cost of living in UK? Check out our Expense Calculator and plan your living costs now!
How to Increase Your Data Scientist Salary
In 2025, the UK job market for data scientists is more competitive than ever. However, professionals can boost their data scientist salary in the UK by strategically enhancing their skills, earning certifications, and exploring better opportunities across industries and cities.
Here are some practical ways to increase your salary as a data scientist:
Upskill through specialized courses: Learn advanced tools like Python, R, SQL, and Tableau, and explore emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, and Machine Learning (ML).
Earn global certifications: Programs like AWS Certified Data Analytics, TensorFlow Developer, or Tableau Desktop Specialist enhance credibility and open doors to higher-paying roles.
Switch to high-paying industries: Finance, technology, and healthcare continue to offer some of the best salaries for data scientists in 2025 due to data-driven innovation.
Relocate to top-paying cities: Moving to cities like London, Cambridge, or Edinburgh can significantly increase earning potential, though cost of living should also be considered.
Take on leadership or specialized roles: Senior positions in data engineering, AI strategy, or data science management often come with substantial pay increases.
By consistently improving technical and business acumen, professionals can not only secure better-paying roles but also future-proof their careers in the evolving UK data landscape.
Conclusion
The data scientist salary in the UK in 2025 reflects the growing value of data-driven expertise across industries. With average salaries ranging between £55,000–£80,000 annually (₹57–₹83 lakh), data science remains one of the most rewarding career paths in the country.
Earnings largely depend on factors such as experience, location, education, and skills. Professionals with strong command over tools like Python, SQL, and Machine Learning frameworks continue to attract top-tier employers. While cities like London and Cambridge offer higher salaries, they also come with a steeper cost of living in the UK, making financial planning essential.
For those looking to accelerate their career growth, upskilling through online programs and pursuing globally recognized certifications can make a significant difference. With increasing demand across sectors such as technology, finance, and healthcare, the outlook for data scientists in the UK remains bright and full of opportunities.
Is a Master’s degree required to become a data scientist in UK?
No, but it helps. A Master’s in data science, AI, or analytics increases your chances of getting hired and earning a higher salary. Many professionals enter the field with STEM bachelor’s degrees and build skills via certifications.
Which UK city pays the highest data scientist salaries?
London offers the highest data scientist salary in the UK, averaging £70,000–£80,000 annually due to strong demand in finance, tech, and consulting industries. However, it also has one of the highest living costs in the country.
What factors influence the data scientist salary in the UK?
The data scientist salary in the UK depends on experience, education, skills, and location. Professionals in London and Cambridge earn higher salaries due to greater demand and a higher cost of living in the UK.
How does the cost of living affect data scientist pay in the UK?
Cities with a higher cost of living in the UK, like London and Cambridge, tend to offer higher salaries to offset expenses. Meanwhile, cities such as Manchester and Birmingham have lower living costs but slightly lower pay.
What is the data scientist salary in London vs Manchester vs Birmingham?
In 2025, data scientist salary in London ranges between £65,000–£87,000 (₹70L–₹93L), thanks to the high demand and cost of living. In comparison, Manchester offers salaries between £52,000–£64,000 (₹56L–₹68L), while Birmingham ranges from £48,000–£58,000 (₹52L–₹61L). London remains the highest paying city, but Tier-2 cities offer better value when adjusted for expenses.
How much do data scientists earn in the finance sector in UK?
Finance offers one of the highest salaries, up to £90,000/year (₹96L) for experienced professionals, especially in fintech, banking, and investment analytics.
Does a master’s degree increase a data scientist’s salary?
Yes, holding a master’s degree in data science or AI can significantly increase pay. Employers prefer candidates with advanced analytical knowledge, often offering 10–20% higher salaries compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree.
Do tech companies in UK offer bonuses for data scientists?
Yes. Annual bonuses range from £3,000–£10,000, depending on seniority and company performance. Tech giants offer additional stock-based compensation.
What is the freelance data scientist salary per hour in UK?
Freelancers charge £40–£100/hour (₹4K–₹10K), depending on niche skills (e.g., NLP, computer vision, big data architecture).
Are data scientist salaries increasing in 2025?
Yes, the average data scientist salary in the UK has seen a 6–8% rise in 2025 compared to 2024, driven by growing reliance on data-driven decision-making, cloud analytics, and AI integration across industries.
What is the average remote data scientist salary in UK in 2025?
Remote roles pay slightly lower than London onsite jobs: £50,000–£65,000/year, but offer flexibility and reduced living costs.
Which programming skills lead to higher data scientist salaries in UK?
Skills in Python, R, SQL, Spark, TensorFlow, AWS, and Power BI lead to higher pay, especially in ML and cloud-based roles.
What is the data science salary in UK under Skilled Worker visa?
Skilled Worker visa holders earn a base of £41,500–£65,000/year (₹44L–₹69L), with variation based on location and employer type.
How do data scientist salaries compare with data analyst salaries?
Data scientists earn significantly more than data analysts. Analysts average £40,000–£50,000, while data scientists typically earn £60,000–£80,000, due to deeper technical expertise in machine learning and big data tools.
Do data scientist salaries in UK vary by industry or domain?
Absolutely. Data scientist job roles and salary UK differ widely. Fintech, healthtech, and e-commerce pay the most, while academia and nonprofits offer lower packages.
How can international students pursue data science jobs in the UK?
International students can find data science jobs in the UK after completing postgraduate programs. Gaining internship experience, strong communication skills, and certifications in tools like Python and Tableau improves employability.
Is it worth becoming a data scientist in the UK in 2025?
Absolutely. With increasing digital transformation and AI adoption, data science jobs in the UK offer excellent salaries, growth opportunities, and long-term career stability for both local and international professionals.
How can upGrad Abroad help you build a high-paying data science career?
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upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2868 articles published
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